ECHDC events aim is ‘something for everyone’

As a scheduling companion to its just-announced concert series, the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corp. has put the final touches on a series of summer and early fall events aimed at attracting more people to Canalside.

The events range from daily bike rentals and tours to rides on the Spirit of Buffalo boat and children’s games supplied by Elmwood Avenue’s Treehouse Toy Store. Also planned are three-times-a-week yoga classes and Wednesday night pilates.

And, in a new twist, there will be pre-concert tailgating parties before concerts booked at First Niagara Center.

A series of special weekend events are scheduled, including a July 2 “Wooden Boat Festival” and July 19 “Buffalo Brewers Festival” along with the popular Irish Festival set for Aug. 22 to 24.

While in its first five years, Erie Canal Harbor Development Corp. focused on bringing visitors to Canalside and the Central Wharf during the peak late spring to early fall period, the organization is expanding its game plan. This fall, a series of replica Erie Canal waterways should be open for skating.

Also slated for late this year or early next year, is the lighting of grain mills just across the mouth of the Buffalo River from Canalside.

“It’s no longer seasonal activity,” said Robert Gioia, ECHDC chairman. “Beginning this year, it is now year-round activity.”

Dee thinks the canals and grain mill lighting will go a long way towards attracting people to Canalside, regardless of the season.

“People need to recognize that this is a waterfront city,” Dee said.

The daily activities and special events at Canalside can be found here.